Marrakech driving guide

Don't drive inside the Marrakech medina — the lanes are pedestrian. Park in Gueliz or at your riad and walk in; a car pays off for day trips to the Ourika Valley, the High Atlas and the Agafay desert.

In this guide

• Don't drive in the medina
• Parking
• Day trips worth the drive

Marrakech is best enjoyed with a car for the region and on foot in the centre. Here is how to handle both.

Don't drive in the medina

The medina's lanes are pedestrian and tight — leave the car outside the walls. Park in Gueliz or at your riad's recommended lot and walk in; porters and taxis cover the last stretch.

Parking

Look for a gardien (an attendant in a blue coat) who watches your car for a small tip, or use a paid lot in Gueliz. Street parking marked in blue is usually pay-and-display.

Day trips worth the drive

• Ourika Valley — green, cool and about an hour away
• Tizi n'Tichka — the High Atlas pass toward Ouarzazate
• Agafay — the stony desert just outside the city
• Essaouira — the coast, around three hours west

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive into the Marrakech medina?

No — the lanes are pedestrian. Park outside the walls in Gueliz or at your riad's lot and walk in.

What car is best for Marrakech?

A compact for the city; an SUV if you plan the Atlas or the desert.

Pick up at Menara Airport (RAK) or have the car delivered to your riad — DriveCars cars come with no deposit and insurance included.